Of Misty Trails and Ancient Forts: A Travel Guide to Lonavala

The next time you are planning a hill station holiday, give Lonavala a chance for a break from the Himalayan holiday routine.

This resort town offers a combination of thrills and scenic-views with lush green mountain valleys, mysterious caves, rugged cliffs and some pleasant side streets to walk on.

Best Time to Visit Lonavala

A pleasant annual temperature of 24.1 °C makes this place a welcome destination for visitors.

The non-monsoon months between October to May are best to visit Lonavala because the place experiences heavy rainfall between June and September.

Places to Visit in Lonavala

(i) A steady climb to the Lohagad Fort will take you to the 2000-year-old Bhaja Caves. The Buddhist shrines carved out of rocks make it an exciting place worth exploring.

(ii) Meandering pathways cutting through the hilly terrain lead one to the Lohagad Fort. A great attraction to visit as it is, it is also an ideal trekking destination because of its accessibility, ease of trek and lush green surroundings.

(iii) Serving as a prominent example of early rock-cut architecture in India, the Karla Caves are an epicentre to experience transcending peace at.

(iv) Indulge in some fun activities like camping, picnics and sightseeing at the Pavana Lake. Located amidst the scenic locales of Kamshet, surrounded by expanses of fertile green land, this place looks almost like an island.

(v) Nestled on a plateau carpeted with bright green trees, the Rajmachi Fort is one of the top heritage sites in Lonavala. Huge ramparts, sturdy walls, massive gateways surrounded by natural beauty, guarantee calm and peace of mind.

(vi) Trek all the way to the top of the Duke’s Nose Point to see the sun setting behind the small Sahyadri peaks. This day hike gives travellers a dose of adventure and an opportunity to see great views from the vantage point.

Where to Eat in Lonavala

(i) Stop by at Pragati on MG Road to take a whiff of freshly brewed coffee.

(ii) Golden Vadapav on NH4 is a local favourite for its vadas, bhajiyas, moong dal pakodas, samosas and jalebis.

(iii) Pick El Taj at Hotel Kamat to get a taste of their smashing tandoor selection.

(v) Go to the Kinara Village Dhaba for their lively ambience, village setting and excellent food.

Where to Shop in Lonavala

(i) A trip to this hill station is considered incomplete without buying a pair of Kolhapuri slippers from The Shoe Center located in the main bazaar of Lonavala. You can choose from several designs and colours available at this shop.

(ii) For colourful trinkets, wooden figurines and various products made of cane, make it a point to visit the Lonavala Bazaar. The market is also lined with several shops that sell different types of snacks for you to munch on.

(iii) Maganlal Chikki Center is famous for selling Gulab chikki, Choco chikki and other varieties of Chikkis; a local delight that you wouldn’t be able to resist nibbling on.

(iv) Cooper’s is the oldest shop in town specialising in fudges in various flavours ranging from ‘Choco Almond’ to ‘Choco Walnut’ and more.

Lying peacefully in the Sahyadri ranges, Lonavala makes for a perfect vacation spot for thrill-seekers and nature-lovers alike. With its happening view-points, untouched beauty and pastoral countryside, this hilly town offers everything you will need for a refreshing break.